The World Of Tzu Chi March 2024 (Vol.149)

2024 • 03 12 Eternal inspiration By Ng Yen Chin & Yi-Qin Translated by Lee You Zhuan Photos by Ch’ng Kooi Tick W ith a heart brimming with gratitude and joy, Ong Tuen Yiok, who has visited the KL Tzu- Chi Jing Si Hall multiple times, returned once again to his spiritual home from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, for the 30th Anniversary celebration. He recalled that back in 1996, David Liu and Echo Chien flew to Sabah for a charity case. They also took the opportunity to organise a tea gathering to introduce Tzu Chi to the locals. The photos they shared, showcasing Tzu Chi’s charity endeavours, deeply moved Tuen Yiok, evoking a sense of nobility and extraordinariness in Tzu Chi volunteers. After the tea gathering, Echo Chien presented him with a copy of a book by Master Cheng Yen, and penned down the message: “Inspire compassion from faith, shoulder responsibility with resolve, execute tasks with sincerity, forge positive relationships with humility, and realise aspirations through dedication.” Tuen Yiok keenly felt the couple’s high hopes for him and held their message close to his heart. In an era before the internet became prevalent, he could only learn about Tzu Chi’s philosophy and efforts through newsletters, videotapes, and cassettes. He vividly recalled a moment listening to a story on a cassette tape in his car and was surprised to hear the Master’s speeches towards the end. Overwhelmed with emotions, he could not help but shed tears when he stopped the car. The memory still brought tears to his eyes even today. He also recalled what David Liu shared with him, “I have so many changing circumstances to deal with, how would I still find time to play golf?” This prompted Tuen Yiok to reflect, leading him to let go of his golf club membership and gear, freeing up time for Tzu Chi work. He acknowledged, “Brother David truly made a direct impact on my life.” As the first seed of Tzu Chi in Kota Kinabalu, he especially admires David Liu and Echo Chien’s perseverance, courage, and commitment to Tzu Chi. He sees them as positive influencers in his life, and hopes Tzu Chi Kota Kinabalu will keep pace with Tzu Chi KL & Selangor, expanding its volunteer network widely.